Trekking Routes in Nepal
 

Trekking Routes in Nepal

  • Places
  • By Sanchita Pokharel

Why take first class, when you can have five-star views on the trekking routes in Nepal!

Nepal is a small, landlocked country, but it is packed with hundreds of beautiful trekking routes. The country is home to eight of the world’s ten tallest mountains (including the world’s highest peak, Mt. Everest (8,849m)). This tiny Himalayan kingdom has unlimited trekking routes, and even a “short trek” means climbing to high altitudes (and a friendly yak and Sherpas photobombing your selfie!). It offers diverse Nepal Trekking Packages, from a simple short trek to hardcore high mountain pass challenges or remote trekking routes in Nepal.

The trails here are suitable for any type of hiker. Every step in the beautiful place brings something new. Walking alongside flowering rhododendron forests, terraced farms, icy ridgelines, alpine meadows, and desert, it feels like a journey to heaven. Every route gives supplies to the travellers (and maybe a steaming cup of chai at the teahouse finish line).

It’s no surprise that Nepal has earned a world-class reputation among trekking enthusiasts, as it has major trekking routes in Nepal as the Everest Base Camp trek and the Annapurna Circuit Trek. These are the most popular trekking routes in the world. It attracts adventurers from across the globe, but the country has dozens of hidden gems too.

We have handpicked the best and most popular trekking routes in Nepal that beginner and experienced trekkers alike can find their perfect adventure. Our countdown of the 25 best trekking routes in Nepal will show you routes with breathtaking views.

Lace up those boots and pack your sense of wonder to enter this Himalayan nation, which is undoubtedly a trekker’s paradise.

Top 10 Trek in Nepal

It’s hard to top when it comes to offering the best trekking routes in Nepal. The diverse landscapes span jungles, high plateaus, alpine deserts, and glaciers, just name it, there are lots of expeditions suiting all kinds of adventurers. Given below are the popular top 10 treks in Nepal:

  1. Everest Base Camp Trek
  2. Annapurna Base Camp Trek
  3. Annapurna Circuit Trek
  4. Manaslu Circuit Trek
  5. Langtang Valley Trek
  6. Everest Three High Passes Trek
  7. Gokyo Lake Trek
  8. Upper Mustang Trek
  9. Mardi Himal Trek
  10. Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

Best Trekking Routes in Nepal

Everest Base Camp Trek

Standing at the foot of the world’s highest mountain, Mt.Everest (8,849m), who doesn’t want to? The Everest Base Camp trek (also known as “EBC Trek”) is one of the classic trekking routes in Nepal. It is one of the most adventurous and best trekking routes in the world. The classic Everest Base Camp Trek is 14 days (usually 12-14 days) starting with a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,860m). Trekking leads north through Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Lobuche, up to the Everest Base Camp at 5,364m.

Everest Base Camp Trek

Everest Base Camp Trek

The route to Base Camp is very pleasing, as you’ll be surrounded by giants like Everest (8,848m), Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and others on every skyline. The difficulty level of the trek is moderate to strenuous. On an average day, you’ll hike for 5 to 7 hours over the rocky paths and suspension bridges. The major challenge of the trek is altitude. The highest viewpoints along this trek are Kala Patthar (5,545m) and Everest Base Camp itself (5,380m).

The trails are generally open all year round. However, the best time to do the EBC trek is spring (March to May) and autumn (Sept to Nov). During these seasons, the weather is clear and not too cold. For the trekking enthusiast, the Everest Base Camp Trek is a must-do trek. It is one of the most popular trekking routes in Nepal and is liked by thousands.

Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is classic, historically one of Nepal’s longest treks. However, as of now, new routes have shortened it. Today, a typical Circuit trek takes 10 to 13 days rather than the old 22-day version. It loops around the massive Annapurna range, crossing Thorong La Pass (5,416m) to deliver jaw-dropping views of Annapurna I (8,091m) and Dhaulagiri (8,167m) head-on.

The route starts from subtropical valleys near Besisahar and gradually climbs through rhododendron and oak forests. The trek continues and takes trekkers into alpine terrain above 5,000m. The highest point of the Circuit trek is the Thorong La at 5,416m. It is a moderate to strenuous level trek. Trekker has to walk for long days and needs to adapt to high altitude.

The Annapurana Circuit Trek doesn’t demand technical climbing skills. The trail also goes past the Muktinath temple and Mustang valleys on the return. The best times are fall or spring, when the pass is usually clear of snow.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of the most popular and major trekking routes in Nepal. This adventure brings trekkers to the Himalayan amphitheater of peaks around you. This trek is a classic 11-day trek. The adventure starts in Pokhara and leads into the Annapurna Sanctuary. This trek brings you to the Machhapuchhre Base Camp (4,000m) and then ABC (4,130m).

The trail leads through rhododendron forests and terraced fields, passing Gurung and Magar villages. The payoff is spectacular: at ABC you’re surrounded 360° by towering peaks, Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, and more.

The trek’s highest elevation is 4,130m at ABC. This trek is less extreme than EBC and is rated moderately challenging. You can finish this trek in about 8 to 11 days, depending on acclimatization. Spring and autumn are ideal (March-May or September-November) to do the ABC trek. The air gets crisp with clear views and blooming rhododendrons. This is one of the popular trekking routes in Nepal because of the views and easy access.

Gokyo Lakes Trek

Gokyo Lakes Trek

If you want to see Everest views but dislike crowds, the Gokyo Lake Trek is the best choice. The beautiful views and landscapes along the trails have made it one of the best trekking routes in Nepal. It is a 13-day trek (typically 10 to 13 days) that branches off the Everest Base Camp Trail. Instead of trekking to Base Camp, the Gokyo Lake Trek moves toward the beautiful Gokyo Valley. The best part of this trek is a series of turquoise glacial lakes.

The major highlight of this trek is Gokyo Ri (5,357m), a viewpoint above the highest lake. From the top, trekkers can enjoy the views of Everest, Cho-Oyu, Lhotse, Makalu, and a panorama of more than a dozen mountains. In fact, the Gokyo Lake route is “arguably one of the best trekking routes in Nepal” that many veteran trekkers agree on.

The Gokyo Lake trek is a moderate-level trek. Flying into Lukla and climbing above 5,300m, you won’t miss the fun and views in this trek either. The walking days of this trek are shorter than EBC. From Gokyo, you can also cross Renjo La Pass (5,340m) to link back to the EBC trail. The Other alternative trekking routes in Nepal from Gokyo are the Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek and the Gokyo Valley Trek.

Trekking routes in Nepal

Trekking routes in Nepal: Gokyo Lake Trek

Tamang Heritage Trek

The Tamang Heritage Trek is a hidden gem loop just north of Kathmandu. It is a perfect journey that introduces the culture and lifestyle of the mountain people. This trek is a friendly warm-up to bigger hikes. This package is a 9-day adventure (can also be up to 14 days). It is a moderate-but-strenuous trek that goes through traditional Tamang villages and Buddhist monasteries.

The best part of this trek is, you can see the authentic village life. Here, people still cook in wood-fire kitchens, wear traditional garb, and tell old Tamang folk tales. Along the way, you can also soak your tired legs in Tatopani’s natural hot springs and eat hearty dal-bhat prepared by welcoming homestay hosts.

Besides the rich culture, the view is great. Just imagine, peaceful traditional village surrounded by the giant Himalayas. You can join this adventure to take a break from urban life. You can see the Ganesh and Langtang Himal ranges. For more exploration, you can also take a day hike to Taruchee peak (3,700m) for 360° views.

The best time to do the Tamang Heritage Trek is Spring (March to May) and Autumn (Sept to Nov). In short, the Tamang Trail is one of the best trekking routes in Nepal.

Difficult Trekking Routes in Nepal

Nar Phu Valley Trek

Branching off the main Annapurna Circuit, the Nar Phu Valley Trek is a hidden gem in the Annapurna foothills. This trek falls under the remote trekking routes in Nepal. The itinerary typically lasts about 9 to 12 days on top of the circuit (or can be done as a loop back to Jomsom and flown out).

Nar Phu Valley Trek

Remote Villages of Nar Phu Valley Trek

In the rain shadow north of Annapurna, Nar and Phu are traditional Tibetan Buddhist villages. In the winter season, the village is blanketed in snow (making spring a great time to visit). Due to the remote trails and high passes, the Nar Phu Valley Trek is a difficult level trek. From the high Thorong La region, you break off north to Nar Phedi (3,600m) and then Phu (4,070m). The villages have ancient temples and cultural richness.

Gradually, you cross Pin Parvati La (5,319m) back into the Manang valley or loop west to Jomsom. Nar Phu takes trekkers far from crowds into a starkly beautiful Tibetan-influenced landscape. The best time to do this trek is in spring or fall.

Rolwaling Valley Trek

To experience the wildness of the Himalaya and the taste of remoteness close to Kathmandu, try the Rolwaling Valley. The Rolwaling trek is about 15 to 20 days. It starts with a long jeep drive to Dolakha continues with the hike into the valley towards Gaurishankar (7,145m). In this trek, trekkers have to cross Tashi Lapcha La (5,755m). This pass is one of the highest non-technical passes in Nepal. One of the best moments of crossing the pass is the view of massive glaciers and rugged cliffs.

Rolwaling Valley Trek

Rolwaling Valley Trek

The Rolwaling Valley Trek’s difficulty level is extremely challenging. The experts, trekkers call Rolwaling “one of the toughest treks in Nepal”. Due to the terrain that has mostly steep ridges, it requires camping gear (few teahouses exist). Since it’s a remote trekking route in Nepal, you may see very few fellow trekkers. Along the way, you can see wild Himalayan villages and the culture of local people (Sherpa and Tamang).

The high point of this trek is 5,755m at Tashi Lapcha. Though it’s a remote trek, trek to Rolwaling Valley is possible all year round because the valley is less affected by the monsoon. Otherwise, the best time to do this trek is (Apr-May) or autumn (Sept-Nov).

Makalu Base Camp Trek

Makalu Base Camp Trek is one of the most popular and major trekking routes in Nepal. Located at the East of Everest, the Makalu Base Camp Trek is a difficult and remote trek in Nepal. It is a 18 days trekking package (typically 17 to 20 days). This adventure takes trekkers to the foot of Mt. Makalu (8,485m) in eastern Nepal.

The adventure starts with the flight into Tumlingtar and a hike through the lush, tropical lower elevations into Makalu-Barun National Park. Moving forward, the route leads to cross Shipton La (4,700m) or Seduwa La and finally arrive at Makalu’s base camp (4,870m).

The maximum elevation of this trek is 4,870m at Makalu BC. The journey to MBC is long and climbs are steep, with long itinerary days. MBC trek difficulty is usually graded “moderate” only because technical climbing isn’t required. Once you reach above 4,000m, you can expect ice, snow, and cold nights. It’s a popular trekking route in Nepal, but due to the remoteness, you’ll often have the trail to yourself. This trek is a totally offbeat trekking route in Nepal. The best seasons are March to May or Sept to November.

Short trekking routes in Nepal

Some love long adventures and some short and sweet expeditions. Moreover, in this busy world, not everyone has the time for long expeditions. This is for those who are seeking a short adventure. There are tons of short treks in Nepal that fit a long weekend or one week. These are great for families or as acclimatization treks.

Ghorepani Poon Hill Short Trek

One of the most popular trekking routes in Nepal taht is short is the Ghorepani Poon Hill route, This short trek takes trekkers to the nature and cultural rich village of Ghandruk. It is 4 days package, where trekkers hike from Tikhedhunga or Ulleri up to Poon Hill (3,210m) for sunrise over Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. The route leads through rhododendron forests, and when blooming in spring, it’s especially beautiful.

From Poon Hill’s viewpoint you get a classic 360 degree Himalayan views: Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and Dhaulagiri in a row. Ghandruk is also a famous Gurung village with stone houses. The difficulty level of this trek is easy. The typical walking hours per day last only 4 to 6 hours. Spring (Mar-May) is wonderful for flowers, and Autumn (Sep-Nov) has clear skies. This trek is suitable for beginners. It is also ideal to come with families and spend quality time close to nature.

Mardi Himal Trek

Another short classic is the Mardi Himal Trek. This trekking route in Nepal is one of the best and recently known. The trail branches off near the ABC route and, in about 6 days, takes you up to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m). Though compact, the trek climbs steeply through rhododendron forests and past waterfalls. It is a 10-day trek suitable for beginners.

Once reaching the Mardi Base Camp, trekkers can see the breathtaking close-up views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli. The highest point of this trek is just 4,500m, so the trek is moderate for fit hikers. Its short itinerary makes it very popular. Schedule Mardi Himal in spring or autumn to have the best trekking experience.

Langtang Valley Trek

Just 30-40 km north of Kathmandu lies the Langtang Valley Trek, an accessible and stunning trek. In about 7 to 9 days, you can hike from Syabrubesi (the roadhead) up to Kyanjin Gompa (3,850m). The trail enters Langtang National Park, passing through lush rhododendron and pine forests to alpine meadows.

The valley is rich in Tamang culture and was famously home to the endangered red panda. The payoff is panoramic mountain views (Langtang Lirung and the surrounding peaks) without extreme altitude (Langtang Glacier is 5,000m). Difficulty is moderate, most people complete it in under 10 days, staying in teahouses. Because of its proximity, spring and autumn can be busy, but those are still the best seasons to trek.

Pikey Peak Trek

Pikey Peak Trek is a gem to those who wants Everest views without the crowds or extreme effort. This trek is one of the major trekking routes in Nepal that can be done in 8 days. Its short itinerary has made it favorable for those seeking an adventurous challenge in a short duration. The trek starts from the low foothills near Mount Everest and it climbs to Pikey Peak (4,065m). Fun fact: the view of Everest from Pikey is Sherpa guide Tenzing Norgay Jr. is favorite.

Pikey Peak Trek

Harmonious blend of adventure and serenity during Pikey Peak Trek

Trekkers can enjoy the panorama from Pikey on clear mornings. From the summit, you can see Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho-Oyu, and even Kanchenjunga far to the east. The route takes you through the beautiful rhododendron forests and Buddhist monasteries in the Rolwaling area.

The hiking is easy to moderate (not very high passes here). This trek can be done in spring or autumn without much acclimatization worry. This is a great short trekking route in Nepal for anyone with limited time or who is new to altitude.

Short Everest Base Camp Trek

Still want Everest but have only a week? Then Short Everest Base Camp Trek is the perfect option. By directly flying in and out by helicopter (or pushing your legs hard), you can reach Everest Base Camp or Kala Patthar in as little as 9 days. This itinerary races up the standard EBC trail, with just a couple of acclimatization stops.

However, this itinerary is suitable for physically fit and experienced trekkers only. In the Short Everest Base Camp trek, you have to cover a lot of distance daily and have little rest, making it challenging. Therefore, these trekking routes in Nepal are recommended for those who have high-altitude experience. Though short, there is a compromise in the beauty of the views and experience. You can still reach the foot of the world’s highest peak in the world.

Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Similarly, a short Annapurna Base Camp trek can also be done in under a week. Instead of the classic 11-day route, you fly or drive to a higher trailhead (e.g., Kande) and hike 4-5 hours daily to reach Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m). The trekking route of Annapurna doesn’t require much acclimatization as the altitude gains are gradual. So, the short Annapurna Base Camp Trek can be customized into a short. This package is best for those who have limited time.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Mountain Views Annapurna Base Camp Trek

But still, to complete this trek successfully, you have to be physically fit, but it’s doable in 5-6 days. You still get the same views of Machhapuchhre and Dhaulagiri up close. The key is to plan well for, high-altitude experience. It is best to do this trek in spring/Autumn; timing is important for safety and enjoyment.

Difficult Treks in Nepal

Everest Three High Passes Trek

If you love challenges and thrilling seekers, the Everest Three Passes Trek is a great option. It is known for being one of the most thrilling trekking routes in Nepal. This epic route itinerary is for 19 days (typically 16 to 19 days). The trail of this trek links three major passes in the Khumbu: Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), and Renjo La (5,340m).

Everest Three Passes Trek

Everest Three Passes Trek

The best part of the trek is, trekkers can still hit Everest Base Camp and also trek up Gokyo Valley and over high mountain passes. It’s a three-in-one Nepal Trekking Package. However, expect the journey to be long, tough days, as you have to walk for  6 to 8 hours per day, and the passes involve steep, rocky climbs. The pass heights mean a difficult altitude.

The Everest Three High Passes trek is a hard-level trek suitable for seasoned trekkers only. Though difficult on the plus side, you see nearly 360° panoramas: beyond Everest, you look out to Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Makalu, and even Kanchenjunga. Due to its length and altitude, this trek is best done pre-monsoon (spring) or post-monsoon (autumn).

The route map of the Difficult trek route in Nepal i.e, Everest three passes tre,k is shown below:

Everest Three Passes Trek Route Map

Everest Three Passes Trek Route Map

Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek

Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586m), the world’s third-highest peak, is located in the far east of Nepal. This trek is best for the adventurous soul. The South Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek (in Taplejung district) is another popular trekking route in Nepal. It is a 26-day-long and difficult to strenuous rated trek. The trek begins from flying to Biratnagar (subtropical foothills), then a flight to Suketar, and you trek through rhododendron forests and remote villages, eventually ascending to Kanchenjunga Base Camp at 4,610m.

Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek

Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek

The scenery is wild: snow-capped Kanchenjunga and its neighbors (Jannu, Kumbhakarna, etc.) loom over the sky. Similarly, the view from the popular viewpoint on the north face from Pangpema is a highlight. Along the trail, you may spot red pandas and Himalayan tahr in this protected conservation area. Permits and a guide are required (it’s a restricted region). The best times to trek here are spring or autumn, when the weather is stable.

Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek

For a deeper Kanchenjunga adventure, the North Base Camp (and even the full Kanchenjunga Circuit) is possible. The North Base Camp trek is longer (usually 20+ days). Most of all, it is more remote than the South route. You’ll cross multiple passes above 5,000m on the way to the North Base Camp (at 5,143m).

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

The Kanchenjunga trek is one of the most challenging high-altitude trekking routes in Nepal. This trek is best fit for seasoned trekkers who love challenges. The highest point of this trek reaches 5,143m. Due to the remote location, you can expect limited accommodation and services, a hard walk for weeks, and thick forests and glaciers.

Since it’s a difficult trek, only very experienced trekkers attempt the North route and Circuit, which can be 22-25 days. Spring and autumn remain the best seasons to avoid snowbound passes.

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is a hardcore adventure. This loop (about 18-24 days) circles the mountain entirely. Trekking around both South and North Base Camps and crossing high passes such as Sele Le, this trek is one of the most adventurous trekking routes in Nepal. It is a genuinely strenuous expedition through one of Nepal’s wildest areas. On this adventure, you will walk through the deep green valleys, alpine lakes, and enjoy the panoramic views of Kanchenjunga’s four main peaks.

The Kanchenjunga Conservation Area has very limited facilities, so you must be self-sufficient. This is an off-the-beaten-path trek: guides and permits are mandatory. As with other high Himalayan trails, stick to autumn or spring for safer trekking weather.

Khopra Danda (Dhampus Heights) Trek

Another lesser-known Annapurna trek is the Khopra Danda (Dhampus Heights) Trek. Starting from Pokhara, this 6 to 7-day trail ascends through forest to the quiet Khopra Ridge (Danda) at 3,660m. From the Khopra viewpoint, you get to see panoramas: Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, and the Hiunchuli and Lamjung peaks.

Mid-trek, you can do a side-hike to Khayer Lake (4,660m) for an alpine adventure. It is a moderate trek and shorter than AC or EBC. On average, trekkers have to walk for 5 to 6 hours each day. The forests of oak and rhododendron are lush, and in spring they bloom gorgeously. Khopra Danda is a peaceful, uncrowded route. Best time is spring or autumn (again, Mar-May or Sep-Nov).

Remote Trekking Routes in Nepal

Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Circuit is a beautiful loop trek that rivals the Annapurna Circuit in scenery. It typically takes 12 to 15 days and goes around Mt. Manaslu (8,163m). You start in the Budhi Gandaki Valley and trek into the remote Manaslu Conservation Area. The high point is Larke La (5,213m). From the pass, you descend to the Annapurna region side and out at Dharapani. Permit regulations require at least two people in a group.

Difficulty is strenuous: you’re walking long days (6 to 8 hours) at high altitude, but without technical climbing. Most trekkers complete it in about two weeks. The circuit offers classic Himalayan vistas, four 8,000m peaks (Manaslu, Annapurna I/II, Dhaulagiri), as well as rich Tamang and Gurung cultures. Spring and autumn are best for clear trails, while summer brings some rain (though less here than in southern Annapurna).

Tsum Valley Trek

The Tsum Valley Trek is a remote trekking route in Nepal. It is known as a “hidden valley” where the adventure goes deep in the Manaslu Conservation Area. It is a 16-day-long package that tests the endurance (long days, steep sections, and high passes) of trekkers.

Though difficult, this trek doesn’t require technical skills. Every step you take is worth the hard work. Tsum is a Tibetan Buddhist Shangri-La nicknamed the “Valley of Peace.” Once you enter the valley, you can spot the village full of mani walls, chortens, and ancient gompas (Mu Gompa being the grandest).

Walking along the barley fields and prayer-flag–fringed ridges with Ganesh Himal, Himalchuli, and distant Manaslu peaks in view, it brings peace to the whole body and soul. Milarepa’s cave and other sacred sites are worth seeing. It is an offbeat route that has been preserving local Tsumpa culture (non-violence is even a local code).

Similar to other Himalayan treks, the best seasons for the Tsum Valley Trek are spring and fall, when rhododendrons bloom and skies clear. For trekkers tired of Nepal’s busiest trails, the Tsum Valley Trek ranks as one of the remote trekking routes in Nepal. It is a soulful, crowd-free adventure, as many trekkers regard it as the country’s most memorable trek.

Upper Mustang Trek

Upper Mustang Trek is a high desert place that is highly influenced by ancient Tibetan culture and red rock canyons. This place is also called the Kingdom of Lo; it is an arid, semi-tropical trek unlike the jungle and glaciers elsewhere. The Upper Mustang Trek is 14 days long (permit required) and graded moderate to difficult due to altitude (max 3,800m) and aridity. The highlights of this trek are medieval walled villages like Lo Manthang, hundreds of 7th-century gompas (monasteries) and caves carved into cliffs, and views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri on the skyline.

This trek doesn’t take you to that much height, unlike others, but dry wind and sun in spring/summer are intense. The ideal seasons are spring (Mar-May) and autumn (Oct-Nov) when skies are clear. Mustang is a money-intensive trek (permits cost more) and is done on foot or on horseback. It is also one of the popular trekking routes in Nepal.

Lower Dolpo Trek

Dolpo is perhaps the most mysterious region in Nepal. The Lower Dolpo Trek (also called the Phoksundo Lake Circuit) is an 18-day adventure to one of the beautiful regions in Nepal. The trek starts with a flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal and treks deep into the Dhaulagiri rainshadow. A major highlight of this trek is the crystal-clear Phoksundo Lake (3,611m), the deepest lake in Nepal. The lake is located below the cliffs, and its turquoise colour mesmerizes the eye. You also visit the Bon monasteries like Shey Gompa and see Tibetan-influenced villages.

The trail crosses high passes (Numa La 5,180m, Shyangla La 5,125m) and stays mostly above 3,000m. This trek is strenuous due to the high passes and camping in remote areas. Due to the remote location, services are limited.

Interesting fact: Lower Dolpo was opened to trekkers only in 1989. Till today, this trek remains little visited, but the view and experience quality is unmatched by any of the trekking routes in Nepal. Like Rolwaling, spring or autumn are best for weather and views (monsoon rains do not reach this high).

Upper Dolpo Trek

Another remote trekking route in Nepal is the full Upper Dolpo Trek. This strenuous trek is 24 days long (depending on the itinerary). It follows much of the same area as Lower Dolpo, but also goes north of Shey La (5,000m) and across Kang La (5,375m) and Jeng La (5,110m). You enter Tibet-like villages such as Saldang and Lho, visit the ancient Shey Gompa (4,270m), and trek in a barren high-altitude desert landscape.

Upper Dolpo is very difficult: the high passes (up to 5,375m) and long distances demand excellent fitness. Entirely camping-based (except at Shey), it’s the absolute adventure trek. The climate here is so dry that monsoon rain is rare. It is still better to avoid deep winter (sub-zero nights). The best months are April to June and September to October for pass crossings.

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek

Last but not least, the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is one of the great climbs and trekking routes in Nepal. The Circuit Trek goes around the Dhaulagiri massif, taking 19 days to complete. The journey begins from Darbang, you trek into the Dhorpatan and Myagdi valleys, eventually crossing two high passes: French Col (5,360m) and Dhampus Pass (5,182m).

Hidden Valley Camp (5,050m) is a phenomenal spot between the passes, with Dhaulagiri I (8,167m) visible. The trail is extremely challenging. This trek is suitable for experienced one only due to the altitude, steep ascents, glacier crossings, and narrow moraines. This trek is one of the toughest trekking routes in Nepal.

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek

The long distance and walking hours (often 6-7 hours/day) make it challenging for trekkers. Sometimes, you will also encounter rockfall risks and river crossings in the spring melt. Only seasoned trekkers attempt Dhaulagiri.

But all the hard work is worth it as the view on this adventure is matchless. Trekkers can experience the remote side valleys, deep gorges, glacier camps, and peaks up to 8,000m. For safety and weather, autumn (late Sep-Oct) is prime time to do this trek. The Dhaulagiri adventure is an off-the-beaten-path trek (with camps and porters) with empty trails and wild Himalayan beauty.

Conclusion

All the above-mentioned routes are the major trekking routes in Nepal. Though, fall into the same categories (trekking), each packages have a distinct adventure and experience. Trekking routes like Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, and Manaslu Circuit are classic popular trekking routes in Nepal, while others like Upper Dolpo or Kanchenjunga are remote trekking routes.

From the short adventure in the Himalayas to a full expedition, Nepal has everything. We at Access Nepal Tours and Trekking offer all-inclusive packages while keeping your safety in the first place. If not satisfied with the itinerary, we also have a customization feature for any trekking packages for any of these routes. We will handle guides, permits, and logistics so you can focus on the beauty around you.

Remember, planning is key. You can consult a detailed trekking route map of Nepal with us and tailor your journey. We suggest you choose the best seasons (generally spring or autumn) for the best experience. We hope this guide inspires your next adventure. An experience you’ll remember lifelong: Join Access Nepal Tours and Trekking for these 25 trekking routes in Nepal.

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